Often people struggle with sifting through the names without a clue as to the quality of work they provide or the (sometimes) inflated prices they charge.

For newbies, it’s a good idea to do some research before hand, which could wind up saving a significant amount of both money and hassle.

The first step in finding the perfect contractor is to reach out to friends and family. Referrals are the best way to get an honest review of their experience, plus you can see their work firsthand.

Getting a recommendation from a building inspector is another great way to find a quality contractor, as they know which ones routinely receive code violations.

Once you’ve found the right contractor, it’s important to communicate well with who you’ve hired to ensure complete satisfaction with the end result.

Larry Russell, owner and president of West Coast Remodelers & Construction, is an expert on the remodeling process.

“In a kitchen remodel, for example, it’s a good idea to verify with your contractor if he can temporarily (hook up) the appliances and sink after cabinets are installed and before final tops arrive,” Russell said.

“Ask the kitchen contractor if the installers work for him or if they sub out installation. Knowing the top installers is also critical to a successful remodel.”